PN Calls For Protest On Sunday March 9th

Feb 27 2025

A national protest is set to take place on Sunday, March 9, at 3 PM in front of Parliament, organised by the Nationalist Party (PN).

The demonstration aims to tackle issues including the cost of living, healthcare, education, infrastructure, security, and governance.

PN Leader Bernard Grech encouraged the public to participate, emphasising the need for a strong and united message.

He stated that many citizens feel let down by ongoing issues such as rising prices, traffic congestion, an overburdened healthcare system, and challenges in the education sector.

He highlighted recent events, including security concerns and restrictions on public expression, as further reasons why people should speak up.

The protest also seeks to address concerns about transparency, governance, and accountability. Many feel that key decisions are being made without public consultation and that policies are not effectively addressing everyday struggles.

Grech emphasised that this protest is about giving a voice to people who want change. He urged all those who believe in a better future to join and make their concerns heard, stating that the direction of the country should reflect the needs and aspirations of its citizens.

#MaltaDaily

Restoration Of Notre Dame Bastion Begins With €800K Investment

Feb 27 2025

Restoration work has begun on the Notre Dame Bastion, with efforts focused on uncovering a significant portion that was buried under rubble during World War II.

The Cottonera fortifications, constructed by the Knights of St. John in the late 17th century, form an extensive defensive system designed to safeguard the Grand Harbour and the surrounding cities.

This restoration project, backed by an €800,000 investment, is expected to complete its current phase by mid-next year.

Minister for National Heritage, Arts, and Local Government Owen Bonnici described the initiative as a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting Malta’s historical heritage.

“The Cottonera fortifications are a vital part of our cultural identity. This investment will not only aid in their preservation but also boost their educational and touristic appeal,” he said.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli highlighted the role of local councils in shaping such initiatives. “Local councils are best placed to understand their communities’ needs, and we are dedicated to supporting these projects,” she affirmed.

Architect Daphne Fenech, leading the project, outlined the meticulous restoration process. Work includes reinforcing the bastion’s structure, repairing extensive damage, removing invasive materials, cleaning, replacing deteriorated stone, sealing cracks, and implementing rock bolting.

The Cottonera fortifications, designed by military engineer Maurizio Valperga, were constructed in 1670. This vast defensive network consists of eight bastions and two demi-bastions, including St. Paul, St. John, St. Nicholas, St. Clement, Notre Dame, St. James, St. Louis, and San Salvatore.

Additional gates were incorporated in the early 18th century by architect Romano Carapecchia. Due to financial constraints, the fortifications were never fully completed, though the British later reinforced them in the 19th century.

Attending the site visit were Cottonera Foundation Chairman Joe Mizzi and representatives from the Bormla and Ħaż-Żabbar Local Councils.

#MaltaDaily

Worker Hospitalised After Falling 5 Metres In Valletta

Feb 27 2025

A 43 year old man resident of Gżira was injured after falling around five metres whilst working on a building where renovation works were taking place.

The accident happened at around 0830hrs, in Triq l-Ifran, Valletta.

A medical team was called on site, with ambulances taking the victim to Mater Dei Hospital. He was later certified as having suffered grievous injuries.

Investigations by police and the Workplace Health and Safety Authority are ongoing.

#MaltaDaily

Journalists Harassed Outside Court By AFM Drug Theft Suspect Relatives

Feb 27 2025

ONE News shared the moment journalists from the newsroom were harassed by relatives of the suspects in the AFM drug theft case.

The persons threw insults and threats at the journalists in front of the court, prompting a response by the Institute of Maltese Journalists.

’N*ħxil*k familtek kollha’ and ‘L-aqwa li n*ħxil* wiċċa’ some of the persons could be heard saying.

The Institute of Maltese Journalists (IGM) took to social media to issue a statement of condemnation in regards to the harassment journalists faced when reporting on the AFM drug theft case.

The IGM reported how during Wednesday’s arraignment in connection to the Ħal Safi drug heist, journalists and camerapersons were filmed, threatened & followed while carrying out their work duties.

The IGM reported an incident wherein two journalists and a cameraman were filmed and threatened by relatives of those accused.

‘In another incident, the same relatives followed a journalist and hurled insults at them as they were leaving the court building.’

‘The IĠM condemns the incidents and shows solidarity with the journalists affected. This reminds us all of the real dangers faced by journalists in their line of duty.’

‘While the IĠM would like to thank the police for their prompt response to the threats, and for taking measures to ensure that the journalists on site were protected during and after the hearing, the IĠM also urges the police to take criminal action against the aggressors.’

#MaltaDaily